Listening to music can make your bike ride a lot more enjoyable but is cycling with headphones dangerous? The topic is far more in-depth then I appreciated with numerous factors to consider before you make your decision. The benefits of wearing headphones to listen to something motiving while you cycle is strong. Nonetheless, there is an element of risk involved, and it might be considered dangerous.
Table of Contents
Is it legal to ride a bike with headphones
I think the first place to start is the legality around riding bikes and headphones. It is illegal to ride a bike and wear headphones in some states in the US. You will receive a fine if you are found to be cycling and wearing headphones. Although not every state has this law its best to check your state laws before making your decision. In Europe, most countries allow the uses of headphones while cycling.
That’s the legal part out the way, but it doesn’t answer the question of is it dangerous. In fact, there are no proven studies to suggest wearing headphones is dangerous. The reason could be it is not dangerous, or there isn’t enough evidence to prove it is dangerous.
Most accidents involving cyclists only shows data of how the accident occurred, i.e. another road vehicle, pedestrian or weather. However, was the contributing factor in the accident distraction from wearing headphones? That information is not available, and it might be time for the experts to exam this topic.
How to stay safe while cycling with headphones (4 steps)
If you decide wearing headphones is something you would like to do, then I have given 4 steps to keep safe. You have to understand the area you are cycling around. For example, densely populated cities with high volumes of traffic would be considered high risk. The less traffic and pedestrians are deemed low risk.
1. Wear one earphone
Some states suggest only wearing one earphone during cycling and leaving the ear closest to the traffic free to listen for oncoming danger. I would view this as great advice you can still receive the benefits of music while having an awareness of the traffic around you. You could wear one while you’re in higher traffic areas and once you are cycling on a quieter road or path switch up to both earphones.
2. Lower the volume
It might be an obvious response to keeping safe on your bike, although the volume of your music can distract you from the traffic around you. Test the volume settings on your headphones to find the sweet spot between excellent music sound and surrounding noise. I find just below half volume on Apple AirPods works well for medium traffic. The wind can reduce sound quality and muffle surrounding noise.
3. Never wear noise-cancelling headphones
If you are riding your bike outside, never wear noise-cancelling headphones because they will reduce the outside noise significantly. I think everyone would agree using noise-cancelling headphone is dangerous while riding a bike outdoors. Despite them being dangerous outdoors, noise-cancelling headphones are excellent for indoor cycling and can increase your focus, intensity and energy during the ride.
4. Always wear a helmet
If the choice is to wear headphones or a helmet, your helmet must-win every time. The headphones that connect over your head are not suitable for cycling because your helmet won’t fit onto your head correctly. Instead chose the in-ear style earbuds as they will allow for the helmet to still fit correctly, giving your full head protection.
Bone connecting headsets
Another choice is bone connecting headsets which are designed to go around the back of your head rather than the top. Chose one with a thinner band or it might impact the fitting of your helmet. The bone connected headphone doesn’t support single-ear use; therefore, consider lower volume settings.
Built-in helmet and speaker
Forget the headphone altogether and pick a helmet with a built-in speaker. The speaker will connect to your phone via Bluetooth some provide volume and skip track settings on the side of the helmet. Make sure you have good taste in music because everyone around will hear your music, but it might only be for a few seconds as you speed past.
Benefits of wearing headphones while cycling
The risk of wearing your headphones is always going to be other road users and pedestrians. Unless you ride your bike on a secluded route, these dangerous are constantly going to be there.
You now understand the dangers lets look at some of the benefits because there is plenty of reason why you should acknowledge wearing headphones.
Protect your ears from the wind
The wind can often become an issue when your cycling especially a strong side wind. The wind can irritate your inner ear and can cause pain. Earphone protects the inner part of your ear while providing some motivation. You can always wear an earbud to guard the ear instead of the earphone.
Gives you motivation, increase intensity and energy
We all have our favourite songs and music that can really motivate our rides. Create a playlist of your favourite songs that increase your intensity and power and beat some personal best times.
If music isn’t your thing or you want something different, I often listen to podcast and audiobooks. I maximise my time on the bike by learning or studying new things through audiobooks and podcasts. You can study a lot of information on a couple of hours on the bike.
Reduces boredom on longer rides
The excitement of a longer ride usually reduces as time goes on, but you can keep it fresh with some music. I don’t allow myself to completely zone out, whereby I’m not conscious of my surroundings. A little music helps the miles go by and keeps my intensity high resulting in a productive ride.
Top 3 earphones for cycling
I’ve included my top 3 earphones I consider to be great for cycling. I’ve recently changed to wireless headphone because I can put my phone away in my saddle bag attached to a portable charger. There is nothing wrong with cable earphones, but you are limited to where you can have your phone. Alternatively, if you have a smartwatch or music pod, it removes the need for your smartphone.
1. Classic cable earphones
These can be any cable earphones even the ones you get with your mobile phone. They are more than suitable for what you need, and there’s no need to charge them up. Cable length can become an issue and the location of your music device. You don’t need expensive earphones for a great ride.
2. AirPods
I’ve currently upgraded to AirPods not only for cycling or exercise but as my primary everyday earphones. Apple AirPods work with every device, not just Apple products. They are wireless earphone compatible with all Bluetooth devices. Wireless does mean you need to charge them although a long ride won’t use the full battery. These are expensive and more of a luxury item. Always buy Apple not copied version as the sound quality reduces significantly, and it can damage your ear.
3. ENAFIRE earbuds
A great medium-range and priced earphone that will provide good quality sound. This product is an earbud and fits into most ears well and is comfortable. Again it’s a wireless earbud, and you will need to charge, but it should last most longer rides. I have no issues when riding my bike using these earbuds, and because it fits inside the ear, you get excellent protection from the wind.
